The Broncos will use the franchise tag on safety Justin Simmons, according to NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport (on Twitter). The news was first reported by Benjamin Albright of KOA (Twitter link). 
“Justin is one of our core guys. Our goal is to sign him to a long-term deal,” new GM George Paton said recently, with Simmons echoing that sentiment.
The two sides now have until mid-July to hammer out a multi-year deal. If they don’t, Simmons will play out the year with a 20% increase over last year’s tag. Since Simmons received an $11.4MM tag last year, his 2021 price would rise to $13.7MM.
There are five safeties averaging at least $14MM on their respective long-term contracts, establishing a clear floor for Simmons. The Broncos already have plenty invested at safety, with Kareem Jackson making $11MM/year on average, but in his prime at the age of 27. He is also coming off his first Pro Bowl nod after nabbing five interceptions and playing on every defensive snap the third year in a row.
One of the best pure safeties in the league. I was hoping Denver would not tag him again. Almost assuring us he will be resigned barring injury.